Marseille target Malian U17 captain Ismail Kamissoko

Olympique de Marseille are showing strong interest in Malian youth captain Ismail Kamissoko as the Ligue 1 side look to reinforce their midfield with emerging African talent.

According to journalist Loïc Tanzi, the French club have identified Kamissoko as a priority prospect, with recruitment staff closely monitoring the midfielder’s progress.

The 17-year-old currently captains Mali’s U17 national team and has built a reputation as one of the most promising young players of his generation.

Olympique de Marseille are understood to view Kamissoko as a player who fits their long-term strategy of investing in top African prospects before they attract attention from Europe’s biggest clubs.

The approach reflects the club’s desire to secure emerging talent early and integrate them into a structured development pathway.

Kamissoko, who has been developing at Nice, is regarded as a natural leader despite his age. His performances have highlighted a level of tactical awareness and discipline that belies his youth.

Observers point to his work rate and ability to organise play in midfield as key strengths, qualities that have reportedly convinced Marseille’s recruitment team to explore a potential move.

Should a transfer materialise, Kamissoko would continue his progression at La Commanderie, Marseille’s training base, where he would be immersed in a top-level professional environment.

The move would represent a significant step in his career, offering exposure to one of France’s most prominent clubs and the demands of elite football.

For Marseille, securing the signature of Mali’s U17 captain would underline their commitment to building for the future.

The club have increasingly turned to youth as the foundation of their long-term project, seeking to combine development with competitiveness at domestic level.

While no official agreement has been announced, interest in Kamissoko signals Marseille’s intent to remain proactive in the transfer market, particularly when it comes to nurturing young African talent.